title: [Infusion reactions].
abstract: Monoclonal antibody treatment, which is one of the most promising molecular targeting cancer therapies, has recently become indispensable for the treatment of cancer due to its effectiveness and fewer side effects. Infusion reactions, which are similar to hypersensitivity or allergic reactions, are the generic term for the acute characteristic harmful reactions commonly associated with monoclonal antibody treatment. Those typically occur within the first 2 hours of the first infusion and are generally mild-to-moderate reactions which can be managed by either temporary interruption of infusion or administration of supportive care including corticosteroids, oxygen, or intravenous fluids. However, there are sometimes severe or life-threatening reactions, thus indicating the importance of closely observing the patient following the monoclonal antibody treatment. It is quite important that the entire medical staff understands the practical information regarding the timing and prevention or management of infusion reactions. In addition, it is also necessary to establish a system for prompt management of infusion reactions. Furthermore, sufficient information must be provided to the patient regarding infusion reactions.
authors.affiliation: Division of Gastroenterology and Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Asahikawa Medical College, Hokkaido, Japan.
authors.forename: Kazuya
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Sato
authors.forename: Yutaka
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Kohgo
mesh_terms: D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000276:immunology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000276:immunology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004342:Drug Hypersensitivity / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D007167:Immunotherapy; D007263:Infusions, Parenteral / Q000009:adverse effects; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000276:immunology / Q000628:therapy; D013997:Time Factors
chemical_list: D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents